T.M. Kayode

It’s funny how life surprises you with exactly what you need, even when you think you aren’t ready for it. That’s what you are, Tiara—a gift we thought we weren’t prepared for, but we couldn’t have been more wrong. You’ve filled our lives with so much joy. Your smile is radiant, bright enough to melt even the hardest of hearts. You are, without a doubt, God’s gift to us.

I braced myself for a rough first trimester based on past experiences, but you treated me kindly from the start. You let me get on with work, allowing me to feel productive, and the next two trimesters were a breeze. And the delivery? It couldn’t have gone more smoothly in my book. We arrived at the hospital at 8:30 p.m., and by 11:16 p.m., you were here.

I was ready for a tricky postpartum period, but you continued to take care of me. You demanded just enough that you knew I could give. It was like you had pity on Dad and me—being considerate from day one. You slept and ate like clockwork; I just needed to pay attention to your patterns.

To be honest, you were so calm, cool, collected, and considerate, I briefly worried if you’d let people walk all over you when you grew up. But, wow, was I wrong! Despite your tiny frame, you are strong. You’ve already figured out how to assert yourself without losing your composure, and it amazes me how calm you stay, even when other babies are screaming around you. That strength wrapped up in your little fingers—Tiara, it’s inspiring.

Now, let’s take a moment to celebrate all you’ve accomplished in your first year, the things you absolutely hate, and the milestones we’re working on together.

Your Achievements:

• You’ve developed such fine motor and gross motor skills.
• You like to feed yourself and can sip from a bottle on your own.
• You’re mastering the art of using spoons and forks (with a little help, of course).
• You’re not a picky eater—you love all flavors and happily explore new foods.
• By 6 a.m., you’re fully awake and start your mission to “disturb” the whole house. Haha!
• You excel at mini puzzles, and I’m convinced you’d win gold if there were a crawling Olympics.
• You can stand on your own for a few seconds—super impressive!
• And, you give the best hugs and snuggles. Seriously, no one does it better.

Things You Hate:

• You hate taking medicine. I know this because your older sister practically asks for her meds, and giving her medicine was never an issue. But you? Different story entirely. You make it very clear that you’re not a fan!

Things We’re Working On:

• You’re taking assisted steps now, and girl, we cannot wait for you to start walking on your own. It’s going to be so much fun chasing you around the house once you’re on the move!

Tiara, this first year has been an incredible adventure, and you’ve already taught us so much. You’ve filled our home with laughter, love, and more joy than we ever thought possible. We can’t wait to see what the next year holds for you.

Love you forever and always,
Mom and Dad 💖